#remaining of lifespan into at least ten

[vexwerewolf]

How would you add depth and complexity to the culture of the Purview?

Right now, the KTB gets way more attention both because of the two supplements dedicated to it and because the competing noble houses each with its different gimmick and political alignment make it so easy to come up with drama and intrigue.

Meanwhile the Purview seems, both in and out of fiction, flat and uniform. I'm sure its leadership would want to see it and have it seen that way, but given how much it keeps expanding, and therefore adding new cultures to itself, it would have to have a lot of diversity under the hood, even if it would like to pretend otherwise.

I definitely think the Purview has a harder time of it than the KTB, but that's largely because we have a Field Guide to the KTB, whereas the Field Guide to Harrison Armory never got published because of Miguel's non-compete.

There's also the problem that the KTB has this... glamour to it, in both the modern and traditional senses of the word. I've noticed this in a lot of sci-fi properties - that applying the veneer of nobility and monarchy to something can make people forget or forgive its transgressions more easily.

When Harrison Armory, the nationalist corprostate, does imperialist expansion, we can point at it and immediately say "that's a fascism" (even when it's actually... not? Imperialist expansion is always bad but it's not always necessarily fascistic). But somehow, when the KTB do the same or sometimes worse things, like using nanite terror weapons on Free Sanjak, I've noticed people are quicker to make excuses? Like, oh, yeah that's obviously bad but their society works different the KTB are a big place and like of course they're shitty traditionalists and that's really only the Hagiographs and at least the Karrakin have Republican elements who want change and reform and yeah it's bad but aren't Knightly Chivalrous Mechs Just So Gosh Darned Cool?!

I think the nuance of the KTB is also helped by the fact that they're explicitly depicted as non-monolithic. There are ten named Major Houses with their own distinct cultures, politics and homeworlds, and great pains are taken to ensure us that there's multifarious cultures and religions even on an individual world. HA suffers because to some extent it would be more monolithic - it's a nationalist corprostate with only 400 years of history, compared to the KTB's hybrid elective-monarchy neofeudal federation with 10,000.

HA is distinctly American in the way that the nation has become a brand, and a good citizen has to remain on-brand, so things would be more homogenized. To add to that, omninet and blinkgate technology has existed for the whole of HA's lifespan. The unique and distinct cultures of the KTB worlds came about largely because they spent millennia separated from one another by light years. HA has never had this issue, and likely never will. They have the option - and, more importantly, are motivated - to keep a homogenous culture across all of the Purview.

Lancer is fundamentally a game about examining and fighting against unjust structures of power that oppress people but also being larger-than-life heroes that have fun doing it, and the KTB has an innate leg up by virtue of the fact that it has what I'd call a really strong "initial sell:" YOU'RE A SPACE KNIGHT! SPACE KNIGHTS ARE COOL! (PLEASE DON'T EXAMINE SPACEE FEUDALISM!)

To make Harrison Armory compelling, you'd need a similarly strong initial sell for them. And I think I know just the thing.

FOR HUMANITY! FOR LIBERTY! FOR HARRISON! (Please don't examine space nationalism!)

If I were to write the Harrison Armory Field Guide (Tom and Miguel HMU - just kidding. Unless...?), I'd make it BIG and LOUD and OVER THE TOP and OBVIOUS PROPAGANDA with insertions of the actual truth from a HORUS hacker on the side. I'd put Harrison Armory's positioning as "liberators of the galaxy" front and center - "we dive feet-first into hell to save people from tyrants and slavers. We do the work even the UDoJ/HR won't do. Please do not examine our imperialism or social credit system."

[bloodblanks]

one umbrella cover two [mr. scarletella x reader] — chapter xi.

You grapple with memories and an unexpected request.

note: reader is not player (mc).

author’s note: dead dove: do not eat. this fanfiction will contain dark and explicit content, including heavy dub-con, stockholm syndrome, violence, and similar themes.

please read at your own discretion.

<- previous chapter

You’ve never been a fighter.

During your earlier years of being a teenager, you were subject to abundant teasing from your classmates for not looking like your parents. Technically speaking, it wasn’t exactly just for that—it was more so why you didn’t look like your parents.

The answer was simple: you were adopted. Your parents had told you that at a very early age, and you had grown up with that fact. It never bothered you; you were adopted as a baby and had no memories of your birth parents. To you, your parents, though adoptive, were just that. Parents.

The kids at your school thought otherwise, and they were not subtle about it. They relentlessly joked about you being unwanted by your birth parents. You did nothing to stop them.

You remembered just trying to ignore them as best as you could, telling yourself you would just need to survive until university and then you’d never have to see them again. Like that, you made it through middle and high school. You were off to university, where you had the chance to meet new people with shared interests and personalities, where nobody would ever know you were adopted.

—

You weren’t sure why those memories came up, but you found yourself suddenly reminiscing about your past as you laid on the bed in utter disbelief at what had just occurred.

If you were to rate your misfortune for the misfortune-complaining matrix, you would find yourself struggling to pick a number between one and ten.

What happened couldn’t be good, that much you knew for sure. There is no world in which having sex with your ghostly kidnapper was a good idea, but out of all the options you had, it certainly seemed like the least threatening one. That was until he pulled his cock out.

You grimaced, the soreness between your legs a grim reminder of your situation. If you were being honest with yourself, you weren’t sure why you had expected him to be anything short of enormous, considering his stature and height. You should have known he would be... Well endowed, you supposed.

He had been astonishingly patient, waiting for what felt like eons just for you to adjust to him. You didn’t know how he managed to stay hard for what surely had been an hour, but you weren’t about to question it further.

As the ghostly entity laid beside you on the bed, quiet save for the small breaths passing through his lips, you couldn’t help but wonder to yourself why you didn’t struggle even a bit more. You knew you didn’t have the courage to tell him to stop, but you could have potentially avoided the scenario by telling him something was hurting.

So why didn’t you?

That was the question you asked yourself, pondering it ceaselessly as you remained silent, listening to the sound of Mr. Scarletella’s breathing. Was it because you thought the excuse wouldn’t work? But even then, it still would’ve been worth a try. You thought back to the unadulterated desire and sheer affection in his voice. Did you perhaps feel bad about potentially hurting his feelings? How ludicrous, you thought. It was absolutely asinine to think that, yet you couldn’t stop the sympathy—was it even that—from welling up inside you as you looked into his eyes, charcoal orbs full of what almost appeared to be a childlike adoration.

“—like?” His voice startled you out of your thoughts, causing your spine to snap straight as you turned towards him.

“What say?” you asked, still recovering from the shock. You swore your lifespan had been halved at this point.

“You like?” he repeated himself. When your eyebrows furrowed in confusion, he seemed to recognize that and further clarified himself. “Me you together. You like?”

Did you enjoy it?

That question caused you to stutter, tongue coming to a tentative rest as your lips closed, your mouth waiting for you to come up with an answer. Your instinctual response was to say no, but the more you thought about it, the more you began to doubt yourself.

You had two options now. You could lie to and convince yourself that it was the worst experience of your life, that it was absolutely horrid and you wouldn’t wish this upon your worst enemy. Or, you could be honest with yourself and admit that it wasn’t actually all that awful.

It wasn’t like you had an abundance of sexual experience. From the experiences you have had, however, sex had felt like an impersonal, hasty act done for a satisfaction you’ve had yet to receive.

This, however, was different. Mr Scarletella had taken his time with you, spending lengthy periods of time just for you to be comfortable—or, well, as comfortable as you could be. You could see by now that his knowledge of human customs and complex emotions was scarce; it appeared he had done the best he could to ensure your comfort. It wasn’t like you were being particularly communicative with him or given him an idea of what you did and didn’t want.

He was anything but impersonal. Even just looking into his eyes—which appeared ever so slightly brighter than before—you could feel the utter devotion and affection he felt for you. His eyes bore into you in a manner that made you feel naked, long before he undressed you. He looked at you with such intensity, as if you were the only other person in the entirety of this forsaken world.

As for satisfaction, you couldn’t deny it; it had felt good. Painful at points—you winced just remembering the initial stretch—but aside from that, it was surprising and embarrassingly pleasant. In terms of physical sensation, it wasn’t bad.

Lying to yourself was definitely the better option here.

Lying to Mr. Scarletella, however, was a whole different matter. He was still eagerly awaiting your answer, his eyes burrowing deep into you, eliciting a small shiver.

You weren’t sure which would be a worse idea—telling him yes, or telling him no. On one hand, telling him yes would certainly seal your fate. You would be destroying any future possibility of excusing yourself from his company. On the other hand, telling him no—judging by his woefully adoring gaze, was a can of worms you didn’t even want to think about opening.

“Like,” you muttered, the lengthy silence coming to an end.

A smile instantly broke out on Mr. Scarletella’s face, the corner of his lips tugging far into his cheeks as he beamed in apparent joy.

“You like,” he mirrored your words. “You like. You like!”

You gulped nervously, staying quiet in hopes that he wouldn’t urge you to say more.

“Me happy.”

He suddenly reached out, wrapping both arms around you as he pulled you into his chest, cradling your dishevelled form.

“Me you rest together,” he said. So he does need rest too.

You nodded, your eyelids instantly drooping at the thought of sleep, exhaustion from the day’s events hitting you all at once.

You permitted your eyes to close, letting your consciousness slip through your fingers, much like a child’s lost balloon, drifting beyond where man could reach.

—

An apartment complex. That was what father had assigned him to build. He would follow in father’s footsteps and invest in real estate; much like the older brother had done.

The road he walked on was straight and smooth, devoid of any bumps. Father and mother had paved it for him since the moment he was born, perhaps even prior to that. He never had to search for directions, nor did the path ever fork. All he had to do was keep treading along the same road, following the unchanging asphalt until its inevitable end.

Perhaps that was the reason he became so intrigued by the initial reports of mysterious incidents occurring at the construction site. Unexplained disappearances of various objects was a recurring theme, and though it was something typically deemed to be a nuisance, he couldn’t help but feel a growing fascination at the unusual events.

The apartment complex was intended to be an easy project for him to oversee, something that should be without much hassle. He had nodded at father’s explanations, dutifully following his orders without complaints or questions like he always did.

However, the project was anything but. It wasn’t long before workers began quitting, one after the other, all of them complaining that something wasn’t quite right.

He could tell father and ask for the older man’s advice on how to proceed. He was supposed to, and father would most definitely be angered if he found out that he didn’t. Instead, the next time father asked how the construction was going, he had responded with one singular word—good.

Naturally, father didn’t question his statement. The man had never been very verbose; conversations at the dinner table were for the sole purpose of confirming that his two sons were up to expectations. Aside from that, there was little to discuss.

It was something he had grown accustomed to. When he was a young child, mother often spoke to him, asking about his school day and reading him stories before bedtime. The last story she read to him was The Little Prince, and it was the one that remained in his memory as he aged, long after she had passed away. Oftentimes, as he watched her ghost staring blankly into the plasma television display, he wondered if she had simply returned to her planet and left her body behind.

He’d reread the book countless times since, wishing that he, too, had another world to explore. A world that wasn’t drowning in an everlasting downpour.

As the rumours of the construction site being haunted began piling up, he found himself feeling dangerously intrigued. He did not believe in the supernatural—the closest he had was the spiritless, empty husk of his mother—but the ceaseless talk of mysterious incidents brought forth a flicker of doubt.

That spark of uncertainty evolved to become a small flame, fanned by each new report of something gone wrong. From missing items to eventually, a missing worker, the tales of paranormal activity spread like a wildfire, eventually reaching the local news.

“        ’                                ?” father demanded to know.

“I’m sorry,” he monotonously replied, gazing at the older man with a placid expression. “I thought I could handle it.”

Father sighed, running a hand through his thinning hair. His eyebrows furrowed in vexation as he glanced back at the newspaper in hand.

“    ,    ’                                                .   ’                                  ,” father said, much to his relief. He had been worried about father putting an end to this project. Thankfully, the man was far too concerned about the money invested in this.

As he felt the tension and anxiety dissipate from his body, he came to the startling realization that he cared about this project. Not for monetary value, nor for his public image, but rather because he didn’t want to be separated from this insidious, otherworldly force.

For a minute, all he could hear was his own blood rushing through his bloodstream, his chest tightening with trepidation.

It was a naïve hope; he was well aware of that. Still, he couldn’t prevent himself from fantasizing about the possibility that something truly beyond human explanation or understanding was occurring. To him, who walked the long, unchanging asphalt road—this was a tantalizing invitation to encounter what defied everything he’d ever known. He was enamoured with the very idea of it.

He excused himself from father’s office, his mind filled with unwavering resolution to see this project through.

—

Others again appear.

He woke up with wide eyes, heavily panting as he gasped for air, his ribcage gripping his lungs like a vise.

Once again, he was subjected to visions and recollections that couldn’t belong to him. He didn’t sleep often, and when he did, he didn’t dream much. Yet, somehow, he innately knew the events that played out during his unconscious time should not be disregarded. They possessed a level of significance to him that felt much too close to his heart in a truly unsettling manner.

Not my. Not possible.

They couldn’t belong to him; he wasn’t human. He had no memories of ever being human. Not until now. Not until these. But he knew that the other residents weren’t always just residents. When they first arrived, they were mortal. It only made sense that he, too, was—

“You okay?” Your voice cut through the cacophony in his head. Like a warm cup of coffee on a cold day, your presence immediately brought him comfort.

He started to speak, wanting to tell you that he had a harrowing dream, but the words didn’t come out. It was only natural. After all, such concepts were not named in his language. A sharp spike of irritation poked at his thorax.

Troubled.

It was only then that he realized how limiting his language was—a strange conclusion for him to come to after using this language for countless years. He could only wonder to himself how he didn’t feel this frustration sooner, before his mind drifted to you, who was laying down on the other side of the bed. Did the inability to speak in this language bother you, too?

Never had he inquired about the human world’s language before. He wasn’t sure why, either. It had never even once crossed his mind. He supposed it was because he didn’t have anyone to use the language with; he had never been around a human for such an extended period of time. The desire for togetherness was one only experienced in your company. At the recollection of your prior coalescence, he found himself smiling once again, pleased with the memory he created.

Not know how communicate. Want communicate. Want language.

The need to convey his thoughts and the visions he experienced was ever so present, refusing to leave his mind.

For a moment, he was muted, pondering the question over in his head, wondering if he should ask it or not. With each passing second, the urge to speak to you grew, and no matter the words and combinations he thought of, nothing in his vocabulary was sufficient for it. The desire soon became unbearable; an itch he was incapable of scratching.

“Want you teach me you language,” he finally declared. 

next chapter ->

if you enjoy my writing, please consider reblogging; i really appreciate the interactions.

thank you everyone for reading and supporting my work! (｡･ω･｡)ﾉ♡

[ilikeit-art]

The screaming piha (Lipaugus vociferans ) is a species of passerine bird in the family Cotingidae. It is found in humid forests in the Amazon and tropical parts of the Mata Atlântica in South America. It is a common bird in the middle and lower parts of the canopy at altitudes below about 500 m (1,600 ft), or up to 1,000 m (3,300 ft) in Venezuela and the Andean foothills. It is adapting well to human settlement areas like gardens and parks, and is considered to be of least concern by BirdLife International.

The screaming piha grows to a length of about 25 cm (10 in). Both sexes have dull grey plumage (wings and tail often somewhat duskier) and the underparts are paler grey. Juveniles are grey tinged with brown or rust.

It has a voice that is extraordinarily loud, reaching 116 dB, second only to that of the white bellbird. In the breeding season, up to ten males may gather in loose leks, where they sing to attract females. The Cofán people of Ecuador call it the Pwe-pwe Yoh, which is a reference to its voice. Among the Ecuadorian Secoyas, the bird is known as the Kwow-kwee-yo. The sound is frequently used in movies as a sound typical of the Amazon rainforest.

Despite its distinctive voice, the screaming piha is an elusive bird, remaining still for long periods and blending in with the branches. It is usually solitary, but may sometimes join a mixed species foraging group. It feeds mainly on fruits, but also consumes insects, sometimes flying out from its perch to pluck a fruit or catch an insect in the air with a trogon-like hover.

Description source:

[handlemehyuck]

the momentum 💚🥺

i didn’t take a video during bc i was too busy shaking my fucking ass but fact check live was the best experience of my life. i didn’t know the setlist order and all of a sudden ICONIC MOVE MY MOTION and that damn song seeped into my bones and muscles and ligaments and flesh just everything and i was at its mercy. extended my lifespan by ten years

i’ll never stop thinking abt haechan’s style and the way that mean leads with his hips. it’s honestly the sexiest thing i’ve ever seen. whiplash 😮‍💨 his isolations during sticker 😮‍💨 pricey 😩 everything he does!!! the choreo for raindrop was so sexy?? i wasn’t ready omg. also, i’m honestly worried about him too bc he made a comment abt his/their conditions, and i pray for that mans rest. a part of me wondered if he was alright tonight. idk if i imagined it, or if it was bc i couldn’t see his face clearly like for tds3… idk. i felt like something was off, but it could’ve been my delusions. i’m sending him love through the sky regardless. i love you lee donghyuck haechan full sun

DOYOUNG!!! vocal house. fucking bonkers. talent level in the stratosphere. crisp as hell. kept cupping my ears as if that would help me hear the ending to all his pretty&perfect phrases over screaming lol

jungwoo brought these amazing bursts of energy and beauty and talent. during his ment, he talked about all the people he made eye contact with and my heart burst. he said how happy he is to get to do this job. i love expressions of gratitude. he def had stars in his eyes. what a man

yuta should come with an r rated warning (not that we aren’t all fully aware of this but SHIT his aura is different) also, yuta did a note change, and now i can’t remember what song, but fuck yes. he’s so fucking talented

seeing johnny in his hometown was sweet like honey. he’s sexy with golden retriever energy and i love him. johnny suh, thank you for delivering ICONIC MOVE MY MOTION. thank you for radiating so much warmth and joy

i honestly think mark is one of the most talented people i have the pleasure of knowing (in whatever capacity fans know an artist). i’m blown away by all the things that he is and how he embodies them as a single human being—sometimes it feels like he should be at least three people, like there’s no way things aren’t overflowing, and i’d love to know where those things go. i’m sure he has places to put them down, ways to organize. maybe it’s through music or writing for himself or something else i know knowing about. maybe it’s his faith. this concert, tds3… both times i’ve walked away feeling so inspired by his existence, and that inspiration isn’t just grand. it’s on a granule level like something is seeping into my soul bc of him. like there’s a channel only he is capable of opening. i swear he reaches places i didn’t even know exist, but i feel his impact on a cellular level and idc if that sounds crazy. feels like he rewires my brain. exceptionally curious about mark lee. i’ve made peace with my knowing artists on a fan level, but if i could be friends with one of them, it would be mark

after all of that, haechan remains my ult. i tht johnny or yuta might fuck me up (they did), but i didn’t get pushed away from sunny bear boy. mark is coming for him though. that man is so intellectually stimulating

finally, shout out to the lovely humans i met and the girls beside me who were a fucking treat to experience the concert with. good nighttttttt

[minweber]

Musings on Custodes: Aging and Generational Divide

How many living custodians who remember the Emperor in the flesh are there? The precise answer doesn't matter quite as much as the existence of the question.

Custodians got their shit rocked pretty hard during the War Within the Webway at the end of the Horus Heresy. As traditional for warhammer there is some numbers fuckery going on: it is unclear how many custodians there even was initially, the famous monicker of "The Ten Thousand" possibly being intentionally misleading, and there is no precise information about how many of them were committed to the Webway, and therefore what percentage of the total number did their losses there make, and what then were their losses during the Siege of Terra... But once again, the specifics aren't that important here. What's important is the idea that after the dust had settled, Horus lay slain and the Emperor entombed - Custodes stood as a pale shadow of their former might, their numbers seemingly reduced to a fraction of the original.

What became of these veterans then? It is presumed that by the 42nd millennium Custodes numbers were generally replenished (just in time to get their teeth massively kicked in at the Battle of the Lion's Gate) - though we also don't know to what extent. Do those few-hundreds-to-a-thousand original Custodians still stand among them? Custodians supposedly don't age, and no upper limit to their natural lifespans is known, but there is the whole The Eyes of the Emperor retirement plan for them. Custodians who have, after aeons of service, their reflexes slow down even by a ridiculous degree of a millisecond, supposedly lay down their armor and go out into the galaxy to play spies. So time does affect them? Or is it something else that eventually slows down their bodies? Just how universal is this process for them? Because surely if it's caused by passage of time and at least one of them has gone this road over the last ten thousand years, then most, if not all, of the old guard must either have done so too or be on their way out?

Whatever the answer, the implications for Adeptus Custodes dynamics as a group and organization are fascinating. Because what does it even mean to become a Custodian after the Emperor's "death"? The shame of the failure you never partook in? The hole where the maypole of your entire identity should be? The expectation of being one of humanity's last links to some glorious past which was over thousands of years before you were even born? The Emperor sought counsel of his custodians from time to time, and supposedly made them specifically so that they would be able to give it - do the "young ones" feel the pull of this duty they can never fulfill?

And there are different potential flavors of delicious tragedy here.

If there are none or next to none original guardians left, then it kinda uproots the whole image of Adeptus Custodes, doesn’t it? The mysterious golden demigods are just as lost as anyone else. They may be thousands of years old, but none of them were there. None of them spoke to him, none of them bear any sacral foundational truths of humanity, or even of just the Imperium. All of their deeds and even they themselves are a desperate attempt to recapture something lost, not a defiant effort to carry something forward.

And if the old guard remains as a sizeable minority, then there must be an unseen divide between them and the new generations, right? With the Emperor being so integral to their identity and purpose, surely there was something important that they gained from interacting with him? Can they now pass this something down? Is it even physically possible? Can you truly be a custodian without it? Imagine looking at the new generation of, essentially, your people and realizing that there is a critical piece of your group's identity that they, through no fault of their own, will always be missing. That something important has been irrevocably lost, and they will never even truly now that it had been there? That's chilling stuff. Any real-world analogies for it that I can think of feel like they would be in poor taste to bring up in a rant about warhammer lore. Do they - consciously or not - hold it against them? Do they separate themselves physically and organizationally? Can one who has never seen the living light of the Emperor lead those who have? Are there enough heroic deeds in the galaxy to make up for not being there in time?

The theme of degradation and things being lost to the passage of time is very prominent in warhammer lore. In 40k, the small cadre of characters who physically bridge the divide between 31st and 42nd millennium have always been awarded with a certain aura of awe, but Custodes get to enjoy this situation from the position of someone for whom time itself should never have been a problem. It doesn't really matter how many of the "original" custodians are left - what will forever hang above them is that there even are the "original" ones.

[accomplisheddoubt]

Some Kind of Lepacy Outline

“A Lepacy is a legacy-style challenge focusing heavily on the content and features of each expansion pack.”

This is just a rough outline. Each generation will explore at least one stuff, game, or expansion pack and almost everything not included in a generation (i.e. traits, aspirations) will be randomized. With an exception here and there if something truly makes sense for a generation but was a base game trait/etc. Or a secondary aspiration may be chosen. If a generation includes more than 3 traits or traits that conflict with one another, some remaining traits/aspirations/etc may be given to the next generation or so forth.

If you are interested in following this outline for your own gameplay, please consider using the hashtag #some kind of lepacy

Personally, I play with an adjusted age span that falls somewhere in-between short and normal lifespans. I also keep everything disabled until I "unlock" it through gameplay. The only gameplay mods I am currently using are bits of Lumpinou's Relationship & Pregnancy Overhaul and First Impressions. I also have MC Command Center set to a 55% chance for try for baby and 4% risky woohoo enabled. With autonomous woohoo and try for baby allowed.

Generation One

Base Game, Desert Luxe, Artist Studio 

Generation Two 

Outdoor Retreat + Little Campers as child 

 Get to Work as young adult

Objective: Run a bakery

Aspiration: Outdoor Enthusiast

Reward Traits: Great Storyteller, Stoves and Grills Master, Incredibly Friendly

Skills: Herbalism, Baking

Collections: Insects

Generation Three

Poolside Splash and First Fits Kits as child

Spa Day, Everyday Clutter, Sweet Slumber as teen

Luxury Party, Modern Luxe as young adult

Objective: Make money providing Spa Services

Aspiration: Self-Care Specialist (priority), Inner Peace, Zen Guru 

Traits: Squeamish, High Maintenance

Skills: Wellness

Generation Four

Grunge Revival as teen

Get Together as young adult or teen 

Objective: Host a dance party

Aspiration: Leader of the Pack

Traits: Insider, Dance Machine

Skills: Dancing, DJ Mixing

Generation Five

Dine Out as child

Perfect Patio, Cool Kitchen as young adult

Objective: Run a restaurant

Collections: Experimental Food Prints

Generation Six

Movie Hangout as teen 

City Living, industrial loft kit as young adult  

Aspiration: City Native

Traits: Unflirty

Skills: Singing

Career: Critic, Politician, or Social Media

Collections: San Myshuno Festival T-shirts, Human Statue Outfit, Food Stall Recipes

Generation Seven

Vampires, Romantic Garden, Vintage Glamour, Storybook Nursery as teen or young adult?

Aspiration: Good Vampire, Master Vampire, Vampire Family

Skills: Pipe Organ, Vampire Lore

Generation Eight

Bowling as teen

Parenthood, Kids Room, Backyard, Bathroom Clutter as young adult

Objective: Host family bowling nights and dedicate life to children

Aspiration: Super Parent

Traits: None included, but make Family-Oriented

Skills: Bowling, Parenting

Collections: Voidcritter Cards

Generation Nine

My First Pet as child

Cats and Dogs as young adult 

Objective: Run a successful veterinary office

Aspiration: Friend of the Animals

Traits: Cat Lover, Dog Lover

Skills: Pet Training, Veterinarian

Collections: Rodent Postcards, Feathers

Generation Ten  

Laundry Day as teen

Jungle Adventure as young adult

Objective: Explore all tombs

Aspiration: Archaeology Scholar, Jungle Explorer

Traits: None, but highly consider love outdoors

Skills: Archeology, Selvadoradian Culture

Collections: Ancient Omiscan Artifacts, Omiscan Treasures, Relics, Jungle Souvenirs

Generations 11 onward are still in an extremely rough draft as I plan which packs should be combined versus played independently per generation. And will be added here once I've figured it out.

[ghostrecall]

Meet Larrk, the Ethonal Blooded Voistral. He serves as my Icewind Dale Party's companion.

Made up of the excavated cores of the voistrals servants and rangers that had been summoned by the Netheril mages of Ythryn before the city's crashlanding. After his brewing and reawakening, Larrk's sole purpose was serving Vaelish Gant and remembering his previous lives to recount for historical documentation. After Vaelish was arrested for treason, Larrk wandered through Ten Towns as a stray familiar and pest by the commoners. By the time the Frostmaiden reign begin, the voistral had already slinked away from society, hunkering down in abandoned dwarven mines. There he would remain, hibernating through his body's limited lifespan until stumbled upon a young dwarven scout who would had ended up taking the creature home after misidentifying its body for a large gemstone. Larrk was given a new name, a nice little scarf and a little too much ale, turning its crystal hide purple instead of blue. He dearly misses the scout but after a wight had split one of his cores in two it has trouble remembering thier friend's face. But he remember the technology of the ancient mages and the Red Wizard that burned them.

The party found him in an egg-shaped amulet of containment that was worn around Dzaan's neck as he burned on the stake in Easthaven. They freed him and gave him shelter, Larrk was even able to remember the face of the warforged barbarian, Relic, from thier past lives as servants of Ythryn. Though small, he's a fierce defender and emergancy healer of his new unit. At least, when he's awake and not curled up in a ball within the fluffy hoods of their jackets.

[dirtanddistance]

Running and Identity: or, Coming Out to Your Road Runner Family as a Trail Runner (TW: eating disorder)

From the outside, running looks like a fairly homogenous pastime. It's not until you really get into things that you realize that 'running' means a number of things to different people, and what your running life looks like can change dramatically over its lifespan.

Going home to be with my family for the holidays put this into stark relief for me. I started my running career (?) as a very humble road runner. I had no speed to speak of, and would ensure that remained the case for years (thanks, anorexia) before realizing that maybe I could run some zippy times after all. Growing up in Florida, the opportunities to participate in 'trail running' are few and far between, and those few times contain a cumulative zero feet of vert. Running on a trail back home felt like a bad reprise of a cross country meet (in fact, my first ultra included sections of the old high school district meet route). And all of this was just fine with me. I had a mom who had gotten me into running who was an avid PR seeking machine who I've had to talk off a cliff when her times slowly stopped getting faster as time went on, and has offhandedly told me after a track meet that I just 'didn't look like I was trying that hard' at the end of my 1600m PR. Running on flat, fast courses and always reaching for a faster time was the standard; even if you never competed against anyone else, the clock was there to prove your progress or lack thereof. It didn't occur to me to question any of it. It would take years of experience and months marinating in a more active ultra community to realize that it didn't matter that my second 50k was over an hour slower than my first, not for the least reason because the terrain profile was completely different. This was the running world that I, my brother, and my husband (important side characters in my running saga) inherited.

With that background, you might imagine that morphing into a trail runner was quite the transformation. While it wasn't fully intentional, I wanted to run another ultra (see https://www.tumblr.com/dirtanddistance/727596212894793728/squamish50-race-review?source=share), and where I'd moved (British Columbia), that meant your race was gonna be on some actual trails, with some actual mountains thrown in for interest. Never mind the fact that my first trail run ended with me in actual tears at how hard running uphill was, I was determined to do it, ego about my pace be damned. I quickly learned that doing a trail race entailed less running than road racing, and, in my amateur case, significantly less pace consciousness. It was time consuming, and exhausting... and more liberating than I ever imagined going for a run could be. It reminded me of a conversation I had when I ran into an old (and very fast) track teammate in the local Target after we'd graduated, and he said he was savoring running as many ten minute miles as he wanted. I'd grinned and agreed - there was a joy and freedom in not having to be fast anymore. Trail running is that feeling, multiplied by a thousand.

Imagine trying to explain the ocean to someone who had never seen it before - they know that oceans exist, but they've never even seen a picture of one before. That is what trying to explain an alpine trail race to a Florida road racer who hasn't run much anywhere else is like. The responses you get are the spectrum you'd imagine. There are some who hear your description and find it completely captivating. Your mom, nursing a knee injury and accepting that her fastest times might be behind her, asks you if you don't have to worry about how fast you run at those races. You tell her no, you don't, because none of them are the same, you can't compare 50k to 50k in a lot of cases, and even then, to you they're so challenging that completing them feels like enough of an accomplishment. She smiles and says idly, 'that sounds nice, not thinking about how fast you're going'. You agree, realizing that life has enough pressures and arbitrary benchmarks and you don't need to be adding to them in your off time.

Others hear about it and it sounds like a foreign religion. Interesting perhaps, but not for them. For good reason; if trails aren't convenient for you, or you are starting to get really fast at road races, there's joy and senses of accomplishment to harvest in those fields. You can run slow up a hill later, after you've assured yourself that you can actually run a 20 minute 5k, or qualify for Boston (or not). Not everyone has that potential in them, but you'll never know if you don't try. I think about the road marathon I signed up for with my brother, wedged between this season's big trail races, and both wince at the though of pushing myself to run 'fast' and grin at the chance to get back to where this crazy journey started - can I run that far? And once I can, can I do it faster? Trail running is really just an extension of those questions - can I run THAT far? Can I run UP that far? Inside any runner, road or trail, is a quiet voice which asks them to see what they have in them.

Transitioning over to trail runs from road racing felt like a rebellion against the neurotic constraints of the sport I have come to love, but in writing this, I've come to the conclusion that it's actually just a transmutation of the same drive that was there from the start. The 17 year old blasting Florence + The Machine on her iPod under the canopy tent at the track meet before a second to last place finish at the 3200m is the 21 year old bumping FloRida in the car to the 5k, where she'd PR in the 5k and 50k in the same week, is the 30 year old zoning out to The 1975 on local trails and having nightmares about Matty Healy before every trail race that year, and all of them are just a manifestation of summoning the courage to, in the words of my sleep paralysis demon himself, 'give yourself a try'.

[doamarierose-honoka]

Thanks to a kick-butt start by "Kung Fu Panda 4" through its first two weekends, the DreamWorks franchise as a whole has passed a pretty major milestone. Across four movies, the animated franchise has now surpassed the $2 billion mark at the box office. Over 16 years and through several enemies, Jack Black's Po has endured multiple decades to help make this one of the biggest animated movie franchises of all time. Skadoosh.

"Kung Fu Panda 4" topped the charts through its first two weekends and has, thus far, taken in $187.1 million worldwide against a very reasonable $85 million production budget — by far the cheapest entry in the series to date. That has pushed the franchise to just over $2 billion collectively. The highest-grossing entry to date remains 2011's "Kung Fu Panda 2" with $664.8 million worldwide. Interestingly, that's also the only movie of the four that didn't open atop the charts when it debuted. In any event, this is great news for Universal Pictures and DreamWorks.

The films have averaged $501 million a pop globally against an average production budget of around $126 million. Those are returns that Hollywood will take all day long, especially considering that these animated films have a long lifespan on home video, with plenty of merchandising opportunities as well. In short, DreamWorks has made an awful lot of money since the first "Kung Fu Panda" hit theaters back in 2009.

Kung Fu Panda is breathing rare box office air

Overall, "Kung Fu Panda" now ranks number seven on the all-time global charts as far as animated franchises go at the box office. The rest of the top ten is made up by "Despicable Me" ($4.65 billion), "Shrek" ($4 billion), "Toy Story" ($3.27 billion), "Ice Age" $3.2 billion), "Frozen" ($2.7 billion), "Madagascar ($2.25 billion), "Finding Nemo" ($1.9 billion), "The Incredibles" ($1.8 billion), and "How to Train Your Dragon" ($1.6 billion). You'll care to notice that DreamWorks has several entries on that list, making it an extremely valuable asset to Universal.

Looking at the bigger picture, Universal has been the unquestioned king of animation in the pandemic era. Not only is DreamWorks under the studio's umbrella, but they also have Illumination as well. Movies like "Puss in Boots: The Last Wish," last year's monster hit "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," and even originals like "Migration" have been there to pick up the slack. Several of Disney's recent animated releases like "Wish" and "Strange World" have failed to deliver the goods, and Universal has stepped up to fill that void.

DreamWorks has further capitalized on this franchise beyond the big screen as well, with "Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight" airing for three seasons on Netflix. It's been a very successful run, and there may be more to come. At the very least, this movie's run is far from over and that total will grow a lot before it's all said and done, as it still has many territories left to open in around the globe. 

"Kung Fu Panda 4" is in theaters now.

[goldlightwriting]

My Lore vs Riot's Lore

It's no secret that Riot Games, specifically the corporate entities at the top, have been horrible about the handling of their own IP and fictional universe. Since the Great Retcon that happened nearly a decade ago, myself and other creatives in the League community have taken it upon ourselves to do what they seemingly refuse to.

TBSkyen, Nickyboi and other such creators have put to voice our issues perfectly: that for a company as massively successful as Riot Games, it is difficult to fathom how and why they cannot do in the course of ten years what independent, passionate fans can do in their spare time. I have gone out of my why to create new backstories for characters that have no place in the current lore out of spite. Artists have redesigned Champions whose visuals are woefully behind. And to top it all off, Riot clearly has no consistent vision for where they even want to take things.

Right now they're allegedly trying to make sure the game universe fits with Arcane: something that fundamentally does not and cannot work due to the variety of discrepancies between both properties. They discontinued Riot Forge because they weren't able to instantly dominate the indie market with like four games (big surprise) and actively butcher existing characters and lore for the sake of selling skins.

And that's what it ultimately boils down to. The higher-ups do not care about the world of Runeterra, at least not as much as the Esports scene and the shills who will spend ungodly amounts of money on cosmetics. They leave characters and storylines to rot for years on end unless they're marketable or profitable enough to bother with. Even then, it feels like they can never truly stay consistent.

Perhaps this arrogant of me to say, but as far as I'm concerned, the world of Runeterra belongs to us: the fans who are dedicated enough to remain passionate about a world Riot has no interest in. This is by no means a knock against the artists and writers that Riot employs... But the corporate entity holding this world hostage has, in my opinion, no real right to call themselves the owners of these stories and characters that they intentionally leave neglected and abandoned.

Ever since the Rise of the Sentinels event, I have been forging my OWN canon out of a mix of passion and spite. I know not everyone agrees with all the changes I've made, and that's fine. As far as I'm concerned, those people are more than free to develop their own versions of the lore. The point is that, as things stand, I genuinely don't know if Riot's version is ever truly going to be complete. Even then, there are aspects of the existing canon that I just don't like for some reason or another.

Below is what I call the Gold Continuity: a summary of my alterations to the League mythos or headcanons that I've created to fill in the gaps that Riot left behind. So, without further ado...

Regions and Plotpoints

Yordles

-Yordles have indefinite lifespans, but they are NOT immortal. They can be killed and harmed.

-Yordles survive by adapting to their surroundings. A yordle who spends enough time among other races will eventually come to mimic their behaviors.

-Yordles are not cryptids, nor do they have glamour, but they are rarer in some regions than others.

Vastaya

-Vastaya are chimeric beings that resulted in humans mingling with an ancient race of shapeshifters called the Vastaya-Sharei. They are not immortal, nor can they shapeshift (except for the Oovikat), but they do have slightly longer lifespans than humans.

The Shadow Isles

-The Ruination happened because League's equivalent of Pandora's Box (which would later become Thresh's lantern) was opened and unleashed centuries' worth of evil energy to corrupt the Isles.

-The Black Mist is the accumulation of negativity in a person's soul, while the Hallowed Mist is positivity.

-Relicstone, AKA Lightstone, can be used to harness the positivity or negativity in a person's soul. It emits a golden yellow or ghastly green glow depending on the emotion fueling it.

-The Sentinels of Light were originally an order that used Lightstone weapons to combat malevolent spirits and criminals on the Blessed Isles. Members of this order fled with a supply of Lightstone in tow and remade themselves into an organization devoted to fighting the Black Mist.

-The Ruination did not happen all at once; rather, it took several hours for the Black Mist to completely corrupt the Isles. This allowed some Sentinels time to trap Viego in the vaults of Helia.

-The Harrowing is a period of time in which Viego's seal weakens and his power is able to freely extend across Runeterra.

The Darkin

-The Darkin are ancient, demonic weapons of unknown origin that corrupt the minds and bodies of their wielders.

-The Darkin harbor a deep hatred towards the Celestial gods of Targon for unknown reasons.

-Aatrox, the strongest of the Darkin, aims to lead his kin in a war that will destroy Targon.

Targon

-The Celestial gods of Targon are, in fact, powerful cosmic spirits that have become the embodiment of mortal beliefs regarding the workings of the universe.

-Targon once boasted a polytheistic religion that worshiped and respected all the Aspects. However, sects and cults devoted to individual gods rose up over time, dividing Targon's people.

-Aspects bond with mortal vessels to better enact their wills upon Runeterra, offering power and extended life in exchange for servitude. An Aspect can, however, completely overtake their mortal host and transform them if the host's will isn't strong enough.

-The death of an Aspect doesn't necessarily cause the destruction of celestial bodies, but it does have an impact on Runeterra itself; if an Aspect is killed, then its corresponding stars or moons will no longer be visible to the people of Runeterra.

-Aurelion Sol was once revered by a cult of dragon-worshipers on Mount Targon. They offered him praise and gifts whenever he deigned to descend upon their home. The god of war, Pantheon, saw the potential in Aurelion Sol as a weapon and enacted a scheme to enslave him. Aurelion's followers were tricked into forging a giant crown that bound him to Pantheon's will. Thus, the war god could call on the Star Forger as a weapon whenever he pleased.

-The Solari and Lunari once fought together to defend Runeterra from the Void. However, when the Lunari began to meddle with Void powers in an attempt to better understand this, they were deemed heretics. Though the reasons why have been lost, many sun-worshipers still regard the cult of the moon as heresy.

Shurima

-The Ascended waged war on each other after the empire's fall because of the power vacuum that Xerath created. This resulted in a period known as the Godly War.

-The entirety of the Ascended Host (save for Nasus and Renekton) died during Twilight of the Gods.

Characters

Twitch

Twitch was a rat captured and experimented on by human scientists. He was injected with an experimental drug meant to bolster his physical and mental abilities. After a time, the mutated rat escaped confinement and fled to the sewers. There, he began to build his own personal kingdom amidst the filth and refuge, ambushing anyone foolish enough to enter his territory without permission. Twitch hopes to one day overthrow the surface dwellers and claim revenge on them.

Kog'Maw

Kog'Maw is a doomsday weapon created by the Void. He builds energy within himself by consuming things, and releases that energy in a violent explosion when his body takes severe damage. Kog'Maw's purpose is to build enough energy that he can one day tear apart reality itself in a violent explosion, creating an opening for the Void to invade Runeterra once more.

Shaco

Shaco is a Demon of Delirium, who drives people mad with his twisted games. He appears before the sad and depressed to lure them in with his playful antics, only to leave them surrounded by bodies and covered in blood. Those who fall under Shaco's spell are completely unaware of the atrocities they commit until the Demon Jester has left their side.

Corki

Corki is the leader of a the Screaming Yipsnakes, who defend Bandle City from airborn threats. He pilots a special flying machine that he co-developed with Professor Heimerdinger in Piltover. Corki has grown a touch senile in recent years, but remains as skilled and devoted to his cause as ever.

Shyvana

Shyvana is the last descendant of an ancient tribe of dragon-worshipers from the Kumungu Jungle. Long ago, this tribe made offerings to element dragons in exchange for their blood; by consuming dragon blood, these people were able to become half-dragons. However, the dragon Yvva saw this as an affront, and single-handedly brought an end to the entire tribe... Or so she thought. Shyvana alone survived the onslaught and spent years wandering the world. Eventually, she arrived in Demacia, where she would unite with Prince Jarvan IV to bring an end to her tribe's killer.

Akshan

Akshan is a Shuriman rogue devoted to his own personal brand of justice. He steals from and even sometimes assassinates scoundrels who misuse their wealth and power while fighting for those of less-fortunate means. Some even say he carries an ancient relic capable of draining and restoring life essence, sacrificing one soul to resurrect another...

Zyra

Zyra is an ancient Ixtali witch possessed by a deadly carnivorous plant. The Zyr flowers once threatened to consume all of Kumungu, but their spread was halted by the mages of Ixaocan. A lone sorceress thought it wrong to exterminate an entire species, however, and saved a single Zyr sapling. That sapling, however, would go on to infect her and create the being now known as Zyra. Zyra now seeks to resume her plan of conquering the jungle and spreading her seeds to all living things, more dangerous than ever with a human intellect to bolster her wicked intent.

Thresh

Thresh was once a monk of the Blessed Isles, charged with safeguarding a lantern filled with the evils of humanity. Thresh began to grow resentful of this duty and the order, and extended exposure to the lantern began to corrupt his mind. Thresh longed to release the evils of the lantern, but was unable to as it could never be opened by those with impure intent. When Viego arrived, Thresh saw his opportunity and manipulated the king into opening the lantern, convincing the king that its power could revive Isolde.

Vex

Vex was a yordle serving in the Brotherhood of Dusk on the Blessed Isles. She was once a cheerful, upbeat spirit who excelled in soothing the souls of the departed. However, when the Ruination came, the evils of the lantern inverted her cheerful demeanor into one of nihilism and despair. Vex now seeks to spread gloom and misery wherever she goes, though her shadow reflects the once-kind soul that she still harbors deep inside her...

Viego

Viego was the king of Camavor, though he was never intended to inherit the throne. He spent much of his time and attention doting on his beloved wife, and fell to madness after her demise. He went to the Blessed Isles, birthplace of his Blade of Kings, in the hopes of finding a way to resurrect her. There, he was promised the power to do so by Thresh; all Viego needed to do was take the power stored within an ancient lantern. Viego became a vessel for the Black Mist, which snuffed out the last of the genuine good in his heart and turned him into the Ruined King.

Kalista

Kalista was once a royal guard of Camavor whose father was slain by insurgents in her youth. For this reason, Kalista grew up with a deep-seated hatred for traitors and rebels of all kinds. She believed that loyalty to the crown was absolute, even as Viego's actions slowly drove the country to ruin. Only when he ordered his soldiers to kill the monks of the Blessed Isles did Kalista realized that Viego himself had betrayed his country did she choose to stand against him and all his supporters. When the Black Mist swept over the Isles, Kalista was transformed in her dying moments, becoming a mindless agent of vengeance whose obsession with punishing betrayers has consumed her completely...

Vladimir

Viego's uncle and a formerly influential politician in Camavor. Vladimir sought to gain his nephew's favor by uncovering the secrets of blood magic so that he might resurrect Isolde; to that end, he traveled across the sea to the land of Noxus. There, he became exceedingly proficient in the art of hemomancy... Enough to be invited into the Black Rose. Upon learning of his homeland's fall to ruin, Vladimir accepted the offer and has spent centuries keeping himself young and influential through mastery of his craft.

Elise

Elise is the head of House Kythera: one of the oldest and most influential noble houses in Noxus. Unbeknownst to most, House Kythera reveres an archaic deity from the Noxii Tribes of old: the spider god, Vilemaw. In exchange for human sacrifices, descendants of House Kythera are granted power and lasting life by their deity. Elise has forged an alias with the Black Rose to ensure a steady supply of offerings for her deity, in exchange for using her power and influence to aid the Pale Lady...

Syndra

Syndra is the living antithesis of Karma, though she had, at one point, been the spirit's vessel. Syndra was chosen by Karma at an early age, and immediately took to the power she was granted by Ionia's ancient protector. In fact, her latent magical potential made her the most powerful incarnation of Karma anyone had ever seen. Though the monks of the Lasting Altar tried to teach her restraint, Syndra ignored them all, believing herself to be destined for greater things. Syndra's obsession for power ultimately led the monks to try and extract Karma by force, but rather than removing Syndra's magic entirely, it merely took on a dark and twisted form. Syndra was sealed deep below the Lasting Altar for decades, but now she is free and seeks to reclaim that which was taken from her.

Jarvan IV

The heir to Demacia's throne, Prince Jarvan IV was a prodigy warrior and seemed well-suited to the role of kingship. His skill and pride, however, led him to one day make the most foolish decision of his life. When world a powerful fire dragon ravaging the Demacian countryside reached his ears, Jarvan led a battalion of soldiers against the beast despite his father's orders not to do so. The result was the tragic death of every soldier under Jarvan's command, and his own shameful retreat into the forest. Jarvan would have died from his injuries were it not for Shyvana, who found him and eventually aided him in defeating the fire dragon Yvva for good.

Warwick

A vastayan warrior captured during the Noxian Invasion of Ionia. Though initially set to be brought back to Noxus for sport, the mad scientist Singed arranged for him to be brought to Zaun instead, as payment for the Mad Chemist's assistance in the war. There, Warwick was experimented on as Singed tried to uncover the chimeric properties of the vastaya, even forcibly augmenting his new experiment in a variety of ways. Eventually, though, Warwick managed to escape the lab. Though his mind has been broken by Singed's cruel experiments, a semblance of nobility still remains within Warwick, even as he prowls the undercity for prey...

Lillia

Lillia is dream spirit who once traveled the spirit realm to ward off nightmares. Despite her shy and timid nature, Lillia is quite effective in her task, keeping night terrors at bay with her mystical bough. After an encounter with a particularly fierce nightmare long ago, Lillia was forced to enter a state of dormancy for many years... But now, as dark dreams have begun to spread throughout Runeterra once again, Lillia has awakened to resume her duties and bring peaceful slumber to the mortals of the world.

Cassiopeia

Cassiopeia was transformed into a Baccai by Xerath when she released him from the tomb. Though she initially viewed this as a curse, Cassiopeia soon took to the myriad of powers she gained from the Magus's 'gift.' She now works alongside the Black Rose in Noxus to maintain a foothold in Bel'Zhun, keeping an eye on the Ascended on behalf of her new patron.

---

And that's everything for now. This is Runeterra as I imagine it, completely unfettered by any requirements or existing canon. I may go back and add to this in the future, but for now I think that's plenty to chew on.

[nemesis-is-my-middle-name]

I now want to see "Bloodmoon"-esque variants of the other Ride/Noble Pokémon. (I'm very partial to the idea that Bloodmoon Ursaluna is actually Ride Ursaluna in particular-so you could do all sorts of fun things with that concept.)

[ For example: "Old Conductor Sneasler", a Sneasler who has survived the ravages of time and dwells in the depths if Mount Coronet. Her claws have developed a metallic quality-to the point that her signature move "End of Line" deals both Steel and Poison damage, and she has a variant of the Steelworker ability. Old Conductor Sneasler is said to be searching for a dear friend-commonly believed to be her dear Warden, who vanished ever so long ago. ]

Among Pokémon there is a vast difference in lifespan, generally corresponding to type and physical composition. Prime Steel types can persist until their mechanisms rust or turn brittle, which of course can be forestalled a long ways by regular maintenance; Prime Ghosts seem able to persist indefinitely, or at least, until they run out of some undefinable will and dissipate.

This is all background to add context to the statement that very few Pokémon truly live forever.

But something... happened. Or, must have happened, though nobody's entirely clear what, or when, exactly. During the second Rift Crisis, the second coming of the Almighty, when the region was once more suffused with divine power—the Pokémon that bore its blessing, the Nobles, they simply... stopped. Stopped aging, stopped dying. The ten that had been present then, persisting indefinitely. Succession over time is the norm, leaving the humans of the region at a loss for how to react.

But while their lifespans paused, they, time did not. Ursaluna wandered slowly, already ancient when it was frozen, slowly changing into something not quite like what it had been before. Basculegion has not been seen in an age, but its kind can grow indefinitely throughout their lifespan, so perhaps it has something to do with the tales of leviathans off Sinnoh's western coast. Kleavor guards and cultivates its forest, same as always, and Lilligant its vast mire-garden, beloved by the people of the region. Braviary soars ever higher, its watchful eye over the entire region from above. Electrode is said to have buried itself and put down roots, as only the most ancient of its kind ever did.

The Lady Sneasler of that age was known as something of a problem child, in her past. Raised without a Warden by a Lord with old wounds in his heart, when it came time for her to take up the mantle, she did not exactly settle easily into the role. Even in adulthood, she was known to be flighty and haughty, with ears only for those vanishingly few humans who earned her respect.

So perhaps it is surprising, then, what she became. But now she guards Mount Coronet, and the structures therein, with a religious dedication. Unfailing and watchful, the ghost-guardian of travelers and the devoted, final caretaker of the most sacred place in the region. It is the last task she was ever given from the first person to earn her respect. So she will persist for as long as there is a mountain to guard—no matter what desires of her own may remain hidden in her heart.

She learned that, after all, from the best.

[acparts]

Why AC Outdoor Unit Parts Fail and How to Prevent It

The outdoor unit found in air conditioners stands as the essential structure behind complete cooling operations. Your outside AC unit contains essential components formed by the compressor, condenser coils, fan motor and capacitor to extract heat from indoor air. A failure in any component within this unit creates problems that affect the entire air conditioning system performance. Knowledge about what causes failure in AC outdoor unit parts enables you to avoid sudden system breakdowns while minimizing repair expenses.

Common Reasons Outdoor Unit Parts Fail

1. Dirt and Debris Accumulation

The outdoor unit remains open to environmental elements throughout its operation. The accumulation of leaves, dust and dirt near the unit along with on its coils creates ventilation blockages that trigger the system to heat up excessively. The additional strain over time leads to damage that lowers system efficiency and harms key components.

2. Electrical Failures

The electrical components which include capacitors, contactors and relays possess natural susceptibility to degradation. Damaging power surges along with moisture or inadequate wiring leads to short circuits and component burnout in aging units.

3. Refrigerant Problems

A compressor will work beyond its normal capacity when it encounters either low refrigerant levels or refrigerant leaks. This unchecked stress will make the compressor overheat until it fails because of its high cost value.

4. General Wear and Tear

High-quality ac parts eventually reach their end of service. Time-related deterioration occurs due to heat exposure combined with vibration and the presence of moisture. The failure to replace broken components leads to multiple system breakdowns.

5. Lack of Maintenance  

The majority of part breakdowns become avoidable with proper scheduled maintenance. When seasonal inspections are skipped minor problems develop into significant issues before they can be detected.

How to Prevent Outdoor Unit Failures

1. Schedule Regular Maintenance  

A professional should inspect your system two times each year to guarantee proper functioning. Regular maintenance checks help your unit maintain clean operation while improving efficiency to prevent unexpected breakdowns.

2. Use top-quality replacement components

Replace system parts only through trusted vendors. Working with a reputable ac parts distributor enables customers to receive authentic high-performance components which deliver extended product lifetime.

3. Keep the Area Around the Unit Clear  

The outdoor unit needs at least two feet of clearance in all directions for proper ventilation. Clear space around the unit improves airflow while reducing coil overheating and stopping dust accumulation on the cooling components.

4. Upgrade When Necessary  

The cost effectiveness of system replacement emerges when an aging system exceeds its ten to twelve year lifespan and requires frequent maintenance because this indicates the need for an upgrade to a newer model with improved AC outdoor unit parts.

5. Examine Available Options Before Making Your Acquisition

When shopping for replacements you must read ac parts distributors reviews to guarantee you buy from a reliable seller that offers high-quality products with excellent customer service.

FAQs

Q1. How often should I service my AC outdoor unit?  

Regular maintenance checks are needed at least two times annually before summer and before winter seasons to maintain peak performance.

Q2. Can I replace AC parts myself?

Regular cleaning tasks are suitable for DIY efforts yet major component replacements require professional intervention due to safety factors and warranty concerns.

Final Thoughts

Your outdoor air conditioning unit breakdown occurs gradually because normal wear and tear or insufficient care or subpar component quality. Maintaining your system actively and selecting reliable replacement parts will help your system last longer while preventing big repair expenses.

The search for dependable high-quality components comes to an end with this trusted name.  

The reliable services of AC Parts Distributors provide their clients with premium components together with expert guidance and rapid dependable service.  

Take a look at our current inventory today to maintain smooth operation of your AC system.

[lastimeexteriors-nebraska]

How often should an asphalt roofing contractor inspect my roof?

When was the last time you had your asphalt roof inspected? If you're scratching your head trying to remember, you're not alone. Roof maintenance often slips to the back burner until a leak or damage suddenly demands your attention. However, being proactive about roof inspections can save you from unexpected repairs and expenses. So, how often should an asphalt roofing contractor check your roof, and why is it so important? Let's dive into this essential aspect of home maintenance.

The Ideal Frequency for Roof Inspections

Most experts, including reputable contractors like Lastime Exteriors, recommend having your asphalt roof inspected at least once a year. Annual inspections allow you to catch minor issues before they become major ones. However, certain factors might require more frequent inspections. Here's a breakdown:

After Severe Weather: If your area experiences a severe storm, high winds, hail, or heavy snowfall, it's wise to schedule an inspection immediately. Storms can cause hidden damage that may not be visible to the untrained eye, like loose shingles, leaks, or cracks in the roofing material.

Age of the Roof: Asphalt shingles generally last 20 to 30 years, depending on the quality and installation. If your roof is over ten years old, consider bi-annual inspections. Older roofs are more susceptible to wear and tear, so catching issues early can extend the life of your roof.

Visible Damage: If you notice missing shingles, leaks, sagging areas, or granules in the gutters, it's time to call a roofing contractor. Visible damage indicates underlying issues that can worsen if left unattended.

Routine Maintenance: Schedule follow-up inspections if you've had recent roofing work done, such as repairs or installations. These checks ensure that the work holds up and no new issues have arisen.

Why Regular Roof Inspections Matter

You might wonder why you need a professional inspection if your roof looks fine from the ground. Here’s why regular roof inspections are crucial:

Early Detection of Issues: Roofing contractors have the expertise to spot problems that aren't visible to the untrained eye. They can identify issues like water damage, loose or missing shingles, and structural concerns early on, saving you money on costly repairs.

Preventing Leaks and Water Damage: One of the biggest threats to your home is water damage caused by roof leaks. Regular inspections help detect and fix small leaks before they become larger issues that could damage your home's interior, leading to expensive repairs.

Extending Roof Lifespan: By addressing minor issues promptly, you can extend the lifespan of your asphalt roof. Routine maintenance helps you get the most out of your investment, delaying the need for a costly replacement.

Insurance and Warranty Compliance: Many insurance policies and roofing warranties require regular roof inspections and maintenance. Keeping up with inspections ensures you remain compliant with these terms, protecting your investment.

What Happens During a Roof Inspection?

A professional roof inspection involves a thorough examination of your roof's condition. Here's what Lastime Exteriors does during an inspection:

Exterior Inspection includes checking the shingles for signs of wear, damage, or missing pieces. The contractor also examines the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights, ensuring they are properly sealed to prevent leaks.

Interior Inspection: The attic and ceiling are checked for signs of water damage, mold, or mildew. This step is crucial for identifying leaks that aren't visible from the outside.

Gutter Inspection: The gutters and downspouts are inspected to ensure they are debris-free and properly direct water away from your home. Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water pooling on your roof, increasing the risk of leaks.

Detailed Report: After the inspection, you'll receive a detailed report outlining the condition of your roof and any recommended repairs or maintenance. This report is valuable for planning future roof care and budgeting for potential repairs.

When to Call a Roofing Contractor

While some roof issues are visible, others aren't so obvious. For safety and accuracy, it's best to leave roof inspections to the professionals. If you're unsure about the condition of your roof or haven't had an inspection in the past year, it's time to call a roofing contractor.

Lastime Exteriors is here to help with all your roofing needs. Our team of experienced contractors will provide a thorough inspection, ensuring your roof remains in top condition. Whether you need an annual inspection, post-storm assessment, or check-up on an older roof, we've got you covered.

Ready for a Roof Inspection? Contact Lastime Exteriors Today!

Don’t wait for a leak or storm damage to remind you of the importance of roof maintenance. Keep your home safe and your roof in top shape with regular inspections. Schedule your next roof inspection with Lastime Exteriors and enjoy peace of mind knowing your roof is in expert hands.

Call (402) 330-0911 today to schedule an appointment, or email tony@lastimeroofing.com for a free estimate. Let us help you protect your investment and ensure the longevity of your asphalt roof. Your home deserves the best care—let's ensure it gets it!

[sims-4-challeng]

Percy Jackson sims 4 legacy challenge 10 gens with 10 more optional gens 

Rules

Any lifespan short not recommended

Can start the next gen as young adults except for Poseidon’s kid must start as a teen

Only cheats for the house such as free real estate or small money cheats to build the house

Colors are optional

Gen 1. Child of Zeus

Color yellow

Traits: noncommittal, self-assured , pick one of your choice

Aspiration: villainess valentine or Serial Romantic

Job: astronaut

Kids: 3+

Skills: logic and charisma

In this challenge Zeus’s child must complete their aspiration and reach level ten with career. They have to reach level ten in logic and charisma. They must have at Least three kids with three different people. They must get married but cheat on their partner. That must have one kid with their partner but this kid cannot be the next heir if you skip Hera. And they cannot divorce.

Gen (optional): Priestess of Hera

Color: pale blue

Traits: loyal and family oriented

Aspiration: any family aspiration

Job: babysitter (part time)

Kids: any

Skills: parenting or charisma

(It felt wrong not to include Hera) as a priestess of Hera goddess of marriage you must be the child of Zeus’s kid and their partner. You must marry young and must remain loyal to your partner. You must have a statue of a woman in your room, you must not divorce. You are the grandchild of Zeus but you have dedicated your life to Hera, and honor her as the goddess of marriage.

Gen 2: child of Poseidon

Color: blue

Traits: loves outdoors/or child of the ocean, outgoing

Aspiration: angling ace

Job: Diver or secret agent (forgive me I couldn’t find a good base game job so be a hero)

Kids: 1+

Skills: fishing and comedy

In this challenge Poseidon’s child must complete their aspiration and reach level ten with career. They have to reach level ten in fishing and comedy. Poseidon’s kid must have a good relationship with thier non-godly parent, and must move in with them as a teen (if they did not live with them before) they must marry their highschool sweetheart and they must own a pool if you have the island pack they have to the befriend a dolphin and become a mermaid.

Gen 3: child of Demeter

Color: green

Traits: loves outdoors or green friend, vegetarian or recycle disciple

Aspiration: Freelance Botanist

Job: gardener or live off the land (no career)

Kids:1

Skills: gardening and parenting or cooking

The child of Demeter must max career and skills if you gave them the gardener career they must quit when they have a kid their kid must be their main focus.

Gen 4: child of Ares

Color: red

Traits: hot headed and self-assured

Aspiration: body Builder

Job: military or athlete

Kids: doesn’t matter

Skills: fitness

The child of Ares must get with someone who is already in a relationship they can convince them to leave spouse but it doesn’t really matter, they should get with an incredibly beautiful sim, who is romantic but that’s optional.

Gen 5: child of Athena

Color: gray

Traits: bookworm and perfectionist

Aspiration: lord/ lady of the knits (because Athena created the loom) or Renaissance sim

Job: engineer or tech Guru

Kids: 2+

Skills: logic and knitting or painting

The child of Athena must not have a partner and must have at least twins child from a one night stand

Gen 6: child of Apollo

Color: gold

Traits: creative and music lover

Aspiration: musical genius

Job: doctor or entertainer (music branch), they can also own a vet clinic

Kids: at least a set of twins

Skills: master two instruments

The child of Apollo can marry but if they do they lose there partner early in life (based off of Apollo’s boyfriend Hyacinthus. And you can cheat this death in) after their twins are born

Gen (optional): hunter of Artemis

Color: deep blue or gray

Traits: good and loyal

Aspiration: leader of the pack or friend of the world

Job: military or secret agent

Kids: 7 adopted girls

Skills: fitness and gardening

The hunter of Artemis must never marry or flirt with anyone she has sworn off love.

Gen 7: Child of Hephaestus

Color: orange

Traits: perfectionist and maker or genius

Aspiration: computer wiz

Job: scientist or tech guru

Kids: any

Skills: rocket science and robotics or programming

Hephaestus is the god of the forge so his child is an expert on robotics and science

Gen 8: child of Aphrodite

Color: pink

Traits: romantic and child of the ocean (because of her birth story) or love bug or loves outdoors

Aspiration: soulmate or Paragon Partner

Job: style influencer

Kids:any

Skills: charisma and violin (because it’s one of the most romantic instruments)

As a child of Aphrodite they fall in love easily but they struggled finding love that will love them back just as much. Aphrodite’s child must have one failed relationship before finding their soul mate

Gen 9: Hermes

Color: brown

Traits: kleptomaniac (god of thieves) and dance machine (because of epic the musical) or music lover

Aspiration: Chief of Mischief

Job: entertainer

Kids: 5+ at least one has to be adopted

Skills: charisma and mischief

Hermes is the god of thieves , travelers and messages. Hermes cabin is the most populated cabin and he also opens his cabin for unclaimed half bloods so he has to have at least one adopted child.

Gen 10: child of Dionysus

Color: purple

Traits:glutton and party animal or bro

Aspiration: party animal

Job: actor or entertainer or culinary (mixology)

Kids: any

Skills: mixology and cooking

Dionysus is the god of theater and wine. his children are the only halfbloods that get to see there godly parent on the regular so they must have a good relationship with their kids

Gen 10: child of hades

Color: black

Traits: loner and gloomy

Aspiration: criminal mastermind

Job: criminal

Kids:2+

Skills: mischief and gardening or parenting

The child of hades must marry someone that’s the complete opposite of them they must be close with at least one child

(Optional gens)

Gen 11: child of Iris

Color: rainbow

Traits: creative and genius

Aspiration: Painter Extraordinaire

Job: painter

Kids: any

Skills: panting and logic

Gen 12: child of Hypnos

Color: deep blue or Deep purple

Traits: lazy (because of he’s the god of sleep) and loner

Aspiration: Fabulously Wealthy

Job: business

Kids: any

Skills: pipe organ or piano

Gen 13: Nemesis

Color: teal

Traits: loyal and good

Aspiration: Seeker of Secrets or Bodybuilder

Job: detective or secret agent

Kids: any

Skills: charisma

Gen 14: child of Nike

Color: orange

Traits: self-assured and active

Aspiration: bodybuilder or Extreme Sports Enthusiast

Job: athlete

Kids: any

Skills: fitness

Gen 15: child of Hebe

Color: light pink

Traits: family oriented and good or childish

Aspiration: any family aspiration

Job: doctor or live off the land or can own a vet clinic

Kids: any

Skills: parenting or gardening

Gen 16: child of tyche

Color: green

Traits: cheerful and outgoing

Aspiration: friend of the world

Job: freelancer

Kids: any

Skills:any

Gen 17: child of Hecate

Color: light purple

Traits: loyal and family oriented

Aspiration: Spellcraft & Sorcery or Nerd Brain

Job: writer

Kids: any

Skills: must max all spell casting skills such as mischief magic, and others. If you don’t have the pack then any

[lifechanyuan]

The Influence of Space on Physiology and Character

Xuefeng

May 10, 2014

（Translation edited by Qinyou）

In the “Space Chapter”, I previously discussed the growth of plants I observed while working at an altitude of nearly 4,000 meters in the Qilian Mountains. I noted that plants of the same species have varying growth periods in different environments. The harsher the living conditions, the shorter the growth period of the plant. In high-altitude regions, due to the cold climate, plants can complete the entire process of germination, growth, flowering, fruiting, and maturity within one month. This illustrates how the lifespan of a living organism is influenced by its environment. Different environments result in different lifespans. This explains why humans have a lifespan of only a hundred years in the human world, a thousand years in the Thousand-year World, and 35,000 years in the Ten-thousand-year World. Furthermore, in the Elysium Celestial Islands Continent, lifespan can be considered almost unlimited.

Additionally, in the “Space Chapter”, I discussed how many incurable human diseases are influenced by the environment. Altering the environment can change physiological mechanisms, allowing chronic diseases to be cured without treatment. For example, individuals who develop joint inflammation due to cold and damp conditions can experience relief simply by residing in a dry environment.

In recent years, living in Yunnan, I have often experienced headaches and leg pains, and my appetite has been decreasing. Not long ago, I spent over a month living in Kartal and Gesar, where there was a lot of dry wind and sand, and the water quality was different. As a result, my headaches and leg pains completely disappeared, my appetite sharply increased, and I slept soundly. However, my skin became rougher, and I felt my personality becoming stronger.

Recently, I came to Nanhua, where the scenery is beautiful, and the people are simple and honest. The tranquil life here has made me less anxious and impatient. After more than ten days, my rough skin has become smoother. It's no wonder that the brothers and sisters from Lifechanyuan living here seem younger, at least two years younger. However, my issues have resurfaced. I have not experienced headaches, but my legs and feet always feel cold. In Kartal and Gesar, my legs and feet were always warm, but upon arriving in Nanhua, they remained cold, which is uncomfortable. Nevertheless, my personality seems to have become milder again.

My overall perception is that the environment has a significant impact on a person's physiology and personality. Long-term residency in the same environment will solidify one's physiology and personality traits; the positive aspects will persist, while the negative aspects are unlikely to improve. The gentle will remain gentle, troublemakers will continue to cause trouble, the healthy will stay healthy, and the sick will remain unwell. This 'illness' mainly refers to personality defects and mental health issues.

Following this line of reasoning, for an individual to achieve holistic health—physically, mentally, psychologically, and spiritually—they must continually fully broaden their living experiences possible. Prolonged uniformity is bound to lead to overlooked deficiencies, akin to individuals who have only experienced distinct seasons throughout their lives presuming that such conditions exist universally. Similarly, it's analogous to Earth-dwellers assuming that human lifespan is capped at a mere hundred years.

In the same manner, if a person desires to be healthy, possess a fully developed consciousness, maintain a pure soul, and achieve a high quality of life, they must widely embrace new ideas, perspectives, ideologies, and lifestyles. If one remains immersed in a singular ideological system for an extended period, they will inevitably harbor extremist thoughts, experience self-doubt or arrogance, and become closed-minded, leading to an increase in entropy and ultimately resulting in destruction. This applies to nations, political parties, religions, and countries.

Buddhists should learn from Muslims, Muslims should learn from Taoism, Taoists should learn from Christianity, Christians should learn from atheism, scientists should study religion, and religious believers should study science. In doing so, individuals can achieve true health; otherwise, they may all suffer from ailments.

Hybridization yields advantages, while a singular path tends towards decline. Long-term residency in the same environment, prolonged interaction with the same group of people, and continuous adherence to the same ideology will inevitably lead to crises and serious illnesses. These illnesses primarily manifest as defects in consciousness, mental disorders, and psychological ailments.

This is why the Second Home of Lifechanyuan must become an international family. That's also why I required the Lifechanyuan celestials to switch to other branches every three years when planning the living program of the Second Home. By constantly changing the living space, constantly changing the group of people whom you live with, your consciousness will become more and more perfect, your soul will become more and more pure, the quality of your LIFE will become higher and higher, and you will go to a higher-level space of LIFE.

[honestlyjollysalad]

Common Problems with Lexus Cars: A Comprehensive Guide

Lexus vehicles are renowned for their luxury, comfort, and sleek design. However, like any other car, they are not immune to problems. Over the course of their lifespan, Lexus cars can encounter various issues, some of which are more common than others. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most frequent problems faced by Lexus owners, ranging from oil and water leaks to sensor malfunctions and dashboard cracks. By understanding these issues, you can take proactive measures to address and prevent them, ensuring a smoother ownership experience.

Oil Leaks: A Persistent Challenge

One of the most prevalent issues that plague Lexus cars is oil leakage. While this problem is not unique to Lexus vehicles, they seem to be particularly prone to premature leaks. Many Lexus owners report experiencing oil leaks as early as 8,000 miles into the car's life. If left unattended, these leaks can cause significant damage to the engine and its components, resulting in costly repairs. Regular servicing and vigilant monitoring of oil quality and levels can help detect and address oil leaks before they escalate.

Water Leaks: Protecting Your Cabin

Water leakage into the car's cabin is another common problem faced by Lexus owners, especially in models equipped with sun or moonroofs. Defects or wear around the edges of these roof features can lead to water seeping into the vehicle. If not promptly addressed, this issue can cause rusting within and around the car, potentially leading to further damage. Owners should remain vigilant throughout the vehicle's lifespan and promptly address any signs of water leakage to prevent rust formation.

Power Steering Rack: Beware of Leaks

Lexus vehicles can also develop leaks within their power steering systems over time. The gradual wear and tear of components within the system can lead to loose fittings at connection points, resulting in cracks and subsequent leaks throughout the hoses. If not addressed promptly, these leaks can be costly to repair and may cause irreversible damage. To prevent such issues, regular check-ups and servicing are recommended to ensure the power steering system remains in optimal condition.

Sensor Problems: Navigating Technological Hurdles

As cars become increasingly technologically advanced, more opportunities for sensor malfunctions arise. Lexus vehicles, particularly older models, often encounter issues with their sensors. The O2 sensor and Check Engine light are problematic areas in older Lexus models, with the light frequently illuminating or turning off without apparent cause. Additionally, some models experience difficulties with parking assistance sensors, which may not function effectively. In many cases, these issues can be resolved with a system reset or diagnostics conducted by qualified professionals.

Cracking Dashboard: A Flaw in Luxury

Lexus cars are renowned for their luxurious and stylish interiors, making a cracking dashboard a particularly unwelcome sight. Research suggests that the PVC material used in dashboards may react to UV and heat exposure, leading to premature cracking. Due to the frequency of this issue, Lexus has offered to cover the cost of dashboard replacements in affected models. Owners should remain vigilant about this problem and contact their nearest Lexus service center for assistance if necessary.

Are Lexus Cars Reliable?

Despite the common problems outlined in this guide, Lexus is widely considered one of the most reliable luxury car brands on the market. According to J.D. Power, Lexus has consistently ranked highest in vehicle dependability, with nine top rankings in the last ten years. While repairs for Lexus cars may cost more than those for economy vehicles, the average yearly repair costs for Lexu models are below the industry average for luxury vehicles.

The Least Reliable Lexus Model: 2009 Lexus RX 350

The 2009 Lexus RX 350 has garnered the reputation of being the least reliable Lexus model. Its most significant problem is massive oil leakage from the engine, primarily caused by a burst VVT-i oil line. Lexus attempted to address this issue with a revised part, but even the replacement part may still be prone to the same problem.

The Most Reliable Lexus Model: 2016 Lexus GS 350

On the other end of the spectrum, the 2016 Lexus GS 350 stands out as the most reliable Lexus model. This model has received stellar ratings and almost perfect reliability scores from drivers. While it may come with a higher price tag, its dependability makes it a worthwhile investment. Thanks for giving your valuable time to read this blog, In case you are having a Renault car and you are looking for a renault workshop for your Renault car service then visit Service My Car website for all the Renault car solutions.

Conclusion

Owning a Lexus comes with its own set of challenges, as no car is entirely problem-free. However, by understanding the most common issues faced by Lexus owners, you can take proactive measures to address and prevent them. Regular maintenance, vigilant monitoring, and timely repairs are key to ensuring your Lexus provides a smooth and trouble-free driving experience. With its reputation for reliability and luxury, a well-maintained Lexus can deliver exceptional performance and comfort for years to come.